This place is deserving of it's glowing reviews…read more
I signed up for a Friday evening Beginner's hip hop class with Ryan who was covering for Rob that day. As someone with zero dance experience, I found the pace of the class too quick and had a hard time keeping up, but that's not anyone's fault. If you have two left feet like me, it can feel intimidating and honestly, discouraging because all the students are great dancers (seriously, have you seen the class videos?), but as Ryan said..practice makes perfect and you just have to keep at it. Despite the nerves, I'd come again because the classes would be a great way to get out of your comfort zone (if you're not a dancer and/or have stage fright) and build confidence. I also recommend dragging a friend to go with you if it's your first time.
For you first timers, the building is right to Taco Bell (burritos after class, anyone? Haha) and staples is on the corner of the same block. classes are on the 4th floor. When you get into the building, show your ID to the front desk and they'll give you elevator access. Classes are on the 4th floor and you don't need to check in with them at the front desk. Once the class begins, the receptionist in your studio will check you in. There's a changing room and you leave your belongings in the studio. As for dress code, wear athleisure or something comfortable. I saw jeggings, shorts, tanks, leggings, and sweats.
I'm not sure if all the classes are like this so don't take my word for it, but it begins with a 15-20 minute warmup, followed by 45-60 minutes of learning choreography, and ending with 10-15 minutes of "groups" where students are split up to have more room, followed by the opportunity to get your groove on with an even smaller group. Each group goes twice--once with the instructor guiding you, the second time without. You'll also be shuffling to different ends of the room so you can get closer if you need to. Also, each instructor chooses what they're teaching so you don't know the song choice beforehand.
Now onto the actual class..Ryan is a great instructor. He breaks down all the steps clearly and at a reasonable pace. He'll repeat them as many times as you need. Again, I struggled because I take longer to learn, but despite that, I enjoyed the class. The room is small for a class with about 40 people but the high energy and positive vibes you'll get more than make up for it. Overall, I'd go again.
FYI, If the class is full, you get put on the waitlist (max of up to 10 people can be on this list) and you'll be added to the class as people drop out. If you haven't heard by 11am the next day via email (cut off time to drop a class before late cancellation penalty), you can use that credit towards a different time unless you want to continue waiting to see if the class frees up.